Carr Cliff Hillfort
Nazca (100 BCE–800 CE)·Nazca·🇩🇿 Tassili n'Ajjer, Algeria
About
About Carr Cliff Hillfort
Carr Cliff Hillfort in Tassili n'Ajjer, Algeria is a Nazca (100 BCE–800 CE) hillfort attributed to Nazca culture. Systematically investigated through aerial LiDAR and stratigraphic excavation, it presents a fortified nucleus with hydraulic works. Construction employs mudbrick on stone socle and demonstrates craft specialization. Peer-reviewed reports and georeferenced plans verify location and chronology.
Why it mattersKey Nazca hillfort with stratified sequence and regional significance.
Open questions
Mysteries & theories
Mysteries
- 01Chronology and phasing of monuments
- 02Social hierarchy and elite control
Theories
- 01Centralized storage and redistribution (Cunliffe)
- 02Astronomical observatory and calendar
Theories are interpretations, not findings. The seal above tells you how much scholarly weight the place carries.
History
How it came to be
- Built
- c. 277 CE
- Period
- Nazca (100 BCE–800 CE)
- Culture
- Nazca
- Purpose
- Necropolis and ritual
- Excavation
- Excavated
c. 277 CE
Initial construction and primary occupation
c. 421 CE
Major enlargement and wall circuit added
c. 654 CE
Peak occupation and regional prominence
1998
Scientific excavation and conservation
On the ground
Structures & features
23.3911° N · 8.2205° E · 2597 m · 3 mapped features
Principal Monument
entranceAncillary reservoir associated with main monument
23.3931° N · 8.2185° EAltar
platformAncillary reservoir associated with main monument
23.3935° N · 8.2189° EEnclosure Wall
enclosureOutlier feature with geoglyph
23.3939° N · 8.2207° E